Kangaroo Thorn

Description

The Kangaroo Thorn (Acacia paradoxa)
is a large shrub native to Australia, but grows in other
continents as well. It is considered a weed in California,
USA. It grows up to 3 meters tall, and 3 meters wide.

The leaves of the Kangaroo Thorn grow
very densly, and are a dark green. They provide an excellent
backdrop to the bright yellow flowers. The fruit grows
in 5 cm long brown-colored pods.

Kangaroo Thorn grows widely across the entire Australian
continent and is often one of the first plants to grow
after brush fires. Birds seek shelter in the depths
of the Kangaroo Thorn shrub, and share
the fruit as a food source with moths, butterflies and
other insects.

This plant has spiked stipules
acting as a defensive measure that keep wild animals
at bay.